How Long Does a Steel Roof Last?
How Long Does a Steel Roof Last?
I needed a new roof last year. My biggest question was simple: how many years would this thing actually last? I didn’t want to spend thousands of dollars just to do it all over again in ten years.
Here’s what I found out. Most steel roofs offer a lifespan of 40 to 70 years. If you take care of it properly, then yours may last even longer, and that’s way more than other roofs.
Think about regular asphalt shingles—those typically last 15 to 20 years. Do the math – you’ll need three or four new roofs in your lifetime. Steel? You install it once, and you’re done for good.
Why Do Steel Roofs Last This Long?
Steel is a robust material. It does not crack like tiles. It does not rot like wood. Rain, snow, wind, and sun cannot easily damage it.
Most steel roofs have a special coating on them. This coating stops rust. It also protects the metal from harsh weather conditions. Companies typically use zinc or Galvalume (a coating made from aluminum mixed with zinc) for the coating. This coating does all the heavy lifting. It keeps rust away and protects your roof from the weather’s damaging effects. Without this coating, your steel roof would rust out way faster.
Why Some Steel Roofs Last 40 Years and Others Last 70
The thickness of the steel – When purchasing a steel roof, inquire about the gauge. Lower gauge numbers mean thicker steel. I learned that 26-gauge or 24-gauge steel is of good quality.
The coating quality – Some cheap steel roofs have thin coatings that wear off quickly. Good quality coatings can last as long as the steel itself.
How it’s installed – Ensure you hire someone knowledgeable about installing metal roofs. Check their past work before you hire them.
Maintenance – Steel roofs require minimal care, but they still need some attention. I check my roof twice a year. I remove leaves and dirt. I look for any loose screws or panels. This simple care helps the roof last longer.
Is a Steel Roof Worth the Cost?
If you plan to live in your house for many years, a steel roof saves you money. You do not pay for multiple roof replacements. You do not pay for repairs as often. I also save money on my energy bills. Steel roofs reflect heat in summer. This keeps my house cooler.
How to Make Your Steel Roof Last Longer
- Here are simple things I do to make my steel roof last as long as possible:
- I clean my roof twice every year. I remove branches, leaves, and dirt..
- I check for loose screws because wind can loosen them over time.
- Branches rubbing on the roof can scratch the coating. I keep trees trimmed back from my roof.
My Take on Steel Roofs
I chose steel because I was tired of worrying about roof problems. My old shingle roof needed constant attention. Leaks every few years. Shingles blowing off in storms. I got sick of it.
Now? I no longer worry about my roof. So, if you’re shopping for a new roof right now, ask yourself how long you want it to last. You may be fine replacing it every 15 years. You can select any material that fits within your budget. But if you’re going to install it and never deal with it again, steel makes sense. That’s why I picked it.
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